Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method of imaging on a mobile platform, comprising: exposing an imaging device mounted aboard the mobile platform at a plurality of positions of a propeller of the mobile platform to capture images in a field-of-view; determining, by analyzing the captured images, allowed positions of the propeller that do not obstruct the field-of-view of the imaging device; and controlling the imaging device according to the allowed positions of the propeller to avoid imaging the propeller, including: determining a rotational position of the propeller based on a rotational position of a rotary mechanism operatively coupled to the propeller; and adjusting the imaging device based on a result of determining the rotational position in an unobstructed view by the propeller of the mobile platform.
This invention relates to imaging systems for mobile platforms, particularly addressing the challenge of propeller obstruction in captured images. The method involves mounting an imaging device on a mobile platform, such as an aircraft or drone, and capturing images at multiple propeller positions. By analyzing these images, the system identifies propeller positions that do not obstruct the imaging device's field-of-view. The imaging device is then controlled to avoid capturing images when the propeller would obstruct the view. The system determines the propeller's rotational position by tracking the rotational position of a mechanism connected to the propeller, such as a motor or gear system. Based on this rotational data, the imaging device is adjusted to ensure unobstructed imaging. This may involve timing image capture to coincide with propeller positions that do not block the field-of-view or dynamically adjusting the imaging device's orientation or focus. The method ensures high-quality imaging by minimizing propeller interference, improving the reliability of visual data collected by mobile platforms.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein exposing the imaging device at the plurality of positions of the propeller comprises exposing the imaging device at multiple rotational speeds of the propeller.
This invention relates to a method for inspecting a propeller, particularly for detecting defects such as cracks or corrosion. The method involves capturing images of the propeller at multiple positions using an imaging device, such as a camera or sensor, while the propeller is in motion. The key improvement is that the imaging device is exposed to the propeller at different rotational speeds during the inspection process. By varying the rotational speed, the method ensures that the imaging device captures images from multiple angles and perspectives, providing a more comprehensive view of the propeller's surface. This helps in identifying defects that may not be visible at a single speed or position. The method may also include analyzing the captured images to detect and assess the severity of any defects. The technique is particularly useful in aerospace and marine applications where propeller integrity is critical for safety and performance. The ability to inspect propellers at different speeds enhances the accuracy and reliability of defect detection, reducing the risk of undetected damage.
3. The method of claim 1 , wherein determining the allowed positions of the propeller comprises manually selecting images in which the propeller is not visible.
A system and method for analyzing propeller positions in images involves identifying and tracking the propeller in a sequence of images, such as those captured by a drone or aircraft. The system addresses the challenge of accurately determining propeller positions when the propeller is partially or fully obscured, which can lead to errors in motion tracking or collision avoidance systems. The method includes capturing a series of images containing the propeller, processing the images to detect the propeller's position in each frame, and using this data to predict or estimate the propeller's position in subsequent frames. To improve accuracy, the method allows for manual selection of images where the propeller is not visible, which helps refine the tracking algorithm by excluding misleading or incomplete data. This manual intervention ensures that the system does not rely on incorrect or ambiguous propeller positions, leading to more reliable motion tracking and collision avoidance. The system may also include additional steps such as filtering or smoothing the detected positions to reduce noise and improve tracking consistency. The overall goal is to enhance the robustness of propeller tracking in dynamic environments where visibility conditions vary.
4. The method of claim 1 , wherein determining the allowed positions of the propeller comprises automatically selecting images in which the propeller is not visible by recognition of a pattern on the propeller.
This invention relates to a method for determining the allowed positions of a propeller in an imaging system, particularly for applications where propeller visibility must be controlled or minimized. The method addresses the problem of ensuring that a propeller remains in specific positions during imaging to avoid interference with visual recognition tasks or to maintain aesthetic consistency in captured images. The method involves automatically selecting images where the propeller is not visible by recognizing a pattern on the propeller. This is achieved through image analysis techniques that detect the propeller's position and orientation based on its distinctive pattern. The system identifies frames where the propeller is either obscured or positioned outside the field of view, ensuring that only images meeting the visibility criteria are retained. This process enhances the reliability of visual recognition systems by eliminating images where the propeller could introduce noise or distortion. The method may also include additional steps such as capturing multiple images of the propeller from different angles, analyzing the propeller's movement to predict its position, and dynamically adjusting the imaging parameters to minimize propeller visibility. By automating the selection of images based on propeller visibility, the method improves efficiency and accuracy in applications requiring precise visual data, such as surveillance, robotics, or industrial inspection. The system ensures that only relevant and unobstructed images are processed, reducing the need for manual review and enhancing overall system performance.
5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the propeller is rotationally coupled with respect to the rotary mechanism, and determining the rotational position of the propeller comprises determining the rotational position of the propeller based on a rotational offset from the rotational position of the rotary mechanism.
This invention relates to systems for determining the rotational position of a propeller in a mechanical assembly, particularly where the propeller is rotationally coupled to a rotary mechanism. The problem addressed is accurately tracking the propeller's rotational position when it is mechanically linked to another rotating component, such as a motor or gear system, but may have a fixed or variable offset from the primary rotary mechanism. The method involves measuring the rotational position of the rotary mechanism and then calculating the propeller's position by applying a known or dynamically determined rotational offset. This offset accounts for the mechanical relationship between the propeller and the rotary mechanism, ensuring precise positioning even if the propeller does not align perfectly with the primary rotation axis. The system may use sensors, such as encoders or Hall effect devices, to monitor the rotary mechanism's position and apply the offset to derive the propeller's exact rotational state. This approach is useful in applications like drones, wind turbines, or marine propulsion systems where accurate propeller control is critical for performance and efficiency. The method ensures synchronization between the propeller and the rotary mechanism, improving system reliability and operational accuracy.
6. The method of claim 1 , wherein adjusting the imaging device comprises transmitting an exposure signal to the imaging device while the propeller is in one of the allowed positions.
This invention relates to adjusting an imaging device, such as a camera, to capture images of a rotating propeller. The problem addressed is ensuring the imaging device captures clear images of the propeller while it is in motion, particularly when the propeller is in one of its allowed positions. The method involves transmitting an exposure signal to the imaging device at the precise moment the propeller is in a predefined position, ensuring optimal image capture. The imaging device may be synchronized with the propeller's rotation to trigger exposure when the propeller is in a stable or allowed position, reducing motion blur and improving image quality. The system may include sensors or timing mechanisms to detect the propeller's position and coordinate the exposure signal accordingly. This approach is useful in applications where high-resolution images of rotating components are required, such as in aerospace, industrial inspections, or research. The method ensures that the imaging device captures images only when the propeller is in a position that allows for clear and accurate imaging, enhancing the reliability of the captured data.
7. The method of claim 1 , wherein adjusting the imaging device comprises: transmitting an exposure signal to the imaging device when the propeller moves from a disallowed position to one of the allowed positions; and transmitting a de-exposure signal to the imaging device when the propeller moves from the one of the allowed positions to the disallowed position or another disallowed position.
This invention relates to a system for controlling an imaging device based on the position of a propeller, addressing the problem of unauthorized imaging when the propeller is in certain positions. The system monitors the propeller's movement and adjusts the imaging device's exposure state accordingly. When the propeller transitions from a disallowed position to an allowed position, an exposure signal is sent to the imaging device, enabling imaging. Conversely, when the propeller moves from an allowed position to a disallowed position or another disallowed position, a de-exposure signal is transmitted, disabling imaging. The allowed and disallowed positions are predefined, ensuring imaging only occurs when the propeller is in safe or authorized orientations. This method prevents unauthorized or unsafe imaging by dynamically controlling the imaging device's exposure based on real-time propeller position data. The system integrates with existing imaging and propeller monitoring technologies to enhance security and operational safety.
8. The method of claim 1 , wherein controlling the imaging device according to the allowed positions of the propeller further comprises limiting exposure time of the imaging device according to a rotational speed and number of propeller blades of the propeller.
This invention relates to imaging systems for capturing high-quality images of rotating propellers, particularly in aviation or industrial applications where propeller motion causes blurring. The problem addressed is the difficulty in obtaining sharp, detailed images of propellers due to their high rotational speeds and multiple blades, which introduce motion artifacts. The solution involves dynamically controlling an imaging device to compensate for propeller movement, ensuring clear visual data for inspection, analysis, or monitoring purposes. The method includes adjusting the imaging device's exposure time based on the propeller's rotational speed and the number of its blades. By calculating the optimal exposure duration, the system minimizes motion blur, allowing for precise imaging even at high rotational velocities. The exposure time is determined to synchronize with the propeller's rotation, ensuring that each blade is captured in a consistent position. This approach enhances image clarity and reduces the need for post-processing corrections, improving efficiency in applications such as maintenance, defect detection, or performance monitoring. The system may also incorporate additional controls, such as adjusting the imaging device's position or orientation, to further optimize image quality. The invention is particularly useful in environments where real-time or high-resolution propeller imaging is required.
9. The method of claim 1 , wherein: the propeller is a first propeller; and the mobile platform further comprises a second propeller; the method further comprising: determining a rotational offset between the first propeller and the second propeller to avoid interference between the first propeller and the second propeller within the field-of-view of the imaging device.
This invention relates to a mobile platform equipped with multiple propellers and an imaging device, addressing the problem of propeller interference within the imaging device's field-of-view. The platform includes at least two propellers, where the rotational positions of the propellers are adjusted to minimize or eliminate interference with the imaging device's operation. The method involves determining an optimal rotational offset between the first and second propellers to ensure that their blades do not obstruct the imaging device's view during operation. This adjustment prevents visual disturbances caused by propeller motion, such as flickering or blurring in captured images or video. The solution is particularly useful in applications where clear, uninterrupted imaging is critical, such as aerial drones or robotic systems requiring precise visual feedback. By dynamically or statically aligning the propellers in a non-interfering configuration, the system maintains imaging quality while allowing the platform to function effectively. The invention may also include additional propellers, with similar rotational adjustments applied to each to further reduce interference. The method ensures that the imaging device's field-of-view remains unobstructed, enhancing the reliability and accuracy of visual data collection.
10. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: determining a threshold angle of the imaging device relative to the mobile platform that avoids obstruction of the field-of-view by the propeller; and adjusting a movement angle of the mobile platform or a viewing angle of the imaging device during operation according to the threshold angle.
This invention relates to imaging systems for mobile platforms, particularly those with propellers, such as drones or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The problem addressed is the obstruction of the imaging device's field-of-view by the propeller during operation, which can degrade image quality or prevent proper imaging. The method involves determining a threshold angle for the imaging device relative to the mobile platform. This threshold angle ensures that the propeller does not obstruct the field-of-view of the imaging device. The system then adjusts either the movement angle of the mobile platform or the viewing angle of the imaging device during operation to maintain this threshold angle. This adjustment prevents the propeller from entering the imaging device's field-of-view, ensuring clear and unobstructed imaging. The method may also include stabilizing the imaging device to compensate for movements of the mobile platform, ensuring consistent image quality. Additionally, the system may dynamically adjust the threshold angle based on real-time conditions, such as changes in the mobile platform's orientation or propeller speed, to maintain optimal imaging performance. This approach enhances the reliability and effectiveness of imaging systems on mobile platforms with propellers.
Unknown
March 31, 2020
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